A common side effect of jobs requiring long hours of computer work and other tasks involving frequent hand actions of similar variety, carpal tunnel syndrome can be very painful. If symptoms in the hand, wrist and/or arm begin to interfere with one’s daily activities, an individual may wonder about what doctor for carpal tunnel is the best choice. Let’s look into the reasons why an orthopedic surgeon is the right answer here.
What Kind of Doctor to See for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
For a patient experiencing carpal tunnel impacts, there are several nonsurgical treatment options which can potentially be helpful in alleviating discomfort. These first-line therapies may include:
— Taking time off from or adjusting activities
— Steroid injections
— Medication
— Physical therapy exercises
However, these conservative treatments don’t provide a full solution for every case of carpal tunnel. For patients with persistent or more severe symptoms, a procedure called carpal tunnel release surgery may be considered. In turn, it’s best to start out under the care of an orthopedic surgeon in case your personal treatment pathway leads to this surgery.
Following this procedure, patients should closely follow their surgeon’s instructions in order to minimize discomfort while healing and optimize their long-term results. Partnering with a physical therapist will also most likely be advised to facilitate restoration of finger mobility and grip strength while addressing stiffness in the operated hand. When adhering to their personal treatment guidelines, most patients experience significant reduction in their carpal tunnel symptoms within a year following this surgery.
Handle Hand Pain with Advanced Treatment from Dr. Soffer
Now that you know what doctor for carpal tunnel is the most well-equipped choice, you may be eager to schedule an appointment with a provider who fits the bill. As an orthopedic professional serving patients throughout the Berks County, PA area, Dr. Stephen Soffer has proven expertise in treating carpal tunnel with both operative and nonoperative methods.
Fellowship-trained in sports medicine by specialist Dr. James Andrews, Dr. Soffer takes pride in offering compassionate, top-level care for orthopedic issues of all sorts. To discuss your unique situation with him, call our office at 610-375-4949 and request an appointment.
